As the first blockchain platform to introduce the concept of smart contracts, Ethereum is the gateway to a worldwide decentralized computing paradigm. With this practical guide, the authors provide everything you need to know to start building smart contracts and DApps on Ethereum and other virtual machine blockchains.Through comprehensive coverage of Ethereum's internal workings, you'll understand not just the how but also the why of Ethereum's innovative technology. And practical deep dives into the architecture and operational mechanics will equip you with the knowledge and tools to explore further developments in Ethereum and the wider blockchain world.Run an Ethereum client, create and transmit basic transactions, and program smart contractsLearn the essentials of public key cryptography, hashes, and digital signaturesUnderstand how "wallets" hold digital keys that control funds and smart contractsLearn security best practices, design patterns, and antipatterns with real-world examplesLearn the essentials about DeFi and zero knowledge proofsUnderstand how the Consensus of Ethereum works and the challenges it presentsRead and write basic Solidity and Vyper code